Live broadcast of Service opens at 10:45 a.m., with a Service start time of 11:00 a.m. MTN time.
On the evening of March 9, 2021, heaven gained a special angel when Laura passed away at her home from a pulmonary embolism caused by complications from a recent ankle surgery. Her loving husband, Mike, was by her side.
Laura Kathleen (Niklas) Barrett was born in Helena, Montana on July 25, 1972. She was the third daughter born to David and Colleen (Kearney) Niklas. Her older sisters were only one and three when she was born, and their closeness in age kept them close throughout their lives; they grew up attending the same schools at the same time, knowing the same people and friends, sharing life experiences, many family vacations, and were always together growing up. Laura always said she had an awesome childhood, and was the child full of life and energy. She was fearless, ready for any adventure, always social and outgoing, and participated in gymnastics and cheerleading when she was in school. She attended Four Georgians Elementary School, C.R. Anderson Middle School, and graduated from Capital High School in 1991. She attended school at Montana State University, then moved back to Helena to begin her work career.
Laura’s first love was animals, and she enjoyed working with them at veterinary clinics for many years. Laura eventually transitioned to working in medical billing, and finally to her job in payroll at WestMont where she spent the last 2 ½ years. She enjoyed working with the WestMont team and was proud of their mission to help people. Laura also loved new challenges, and enjoyed being her own boss. Over the years she successfully started and grew several home businesses. Her work ethic and genuine compassion for everyone she interacted with served her well, and she was always an outstanding employee and business woman.
In June of 2000 she met her future husband, Michael Barrett and both knew in a short time that they were meant to be together. They married on July 14, 2001; this summer they would have celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary, and were making plans for a trip to commemorate their 20 years of adventures and love for one another. They both knew how lucky they were to have each other and talked over the years about how thankful they were that God brought them together. Mike and Laura spent their time together camping, boating, side-by-side rides, spending time with friends, family (including their fur babies) and taking trips together.
Laura loved animals from a very young age. Her passion to help them continued with volunteer work that contributed to the well-being of animals big and small. She enjoyed riding horses, always had at least one dog (usually more than one!) and often a cat too, and would tirelessly work to find any animal a good home…even if that meant adopting it herself, or as a child, convincing her parents to adopt the poor thing. There was at least one cat and many dogs that had a great life thanks to her welcoming them into her home.
Laura was preceded in death by her mom, Colleen (Kearney) Niklas, in March of 2020; by her grandparents Tony and Charlotte Niklas, and Tom and Vivienne Kearney; and by her very dear friend Kerry Connole, all of whom were waiting for her in heaven.
Laura is survived by her husband, Mike; father, David Niklas; her sister Tammy (Dave) Lindgren and their children Ashley (Tyrel Suzor-Hoy) and Hunter Lindgren; sister Pam Watson and her sons Tyler, Will and Carson Watson; her in-laws Daryl and Donna Brassfield; sister and brother-in-law Michelle (Brent) Beebe and their children Abby (Glenn Falcon) and Ethan; sister in-law Terrie Darling; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, and so many wonderful friends that were like family to her.
A celebration of her life will be held here at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home on Tuesday March 16th, at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow in the reception room.
Memorials may be sent to organizations that benefit the well-being of animals, or to an organization of the donor’s choice.
Laura’s family would like to take a moment to thank all of the friends who loved her so much, and who have helped us during this difficult time. The shocking, unexpected loss of this beautiful, kind, loving woman is extremely difficult for anyone whose life she touched. The support, companionship, memories, stories, pictures, laughter, and impact she left on us all will help get us through. Thank you for loving her so much in her life, and for showing us all so much love during her loss. We will never forget your kindness. Laura loved each day, and we know she wants that for each of us. Maya Angelou said “At the end of the day, people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” Anyone who knew Laura, knows how true that statement is.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
11:00
Tuesday March 16, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N MONTANA AVE
HELENA, MT 59602-7630
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
11:00
Tuesday March 16, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N MONTANA AVE
HELENA, MT 59602-7630
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Nora and Tom Bazuin says
To say I’m shocked at Laura’s passing, is an understatement. She was a good friend to everyone that knew her and a loving wife to Mike. She was a lover of animals and an all around good person. My heart aches for Mike and I am praying for Mike, her family and friends. RIP Dear Friend!
Amy Knecht says
Sweet Laura B, such a light in this world. We grieve for you as you rejoice in the lords arms. Fly high, friend!
Tasa Beatty says
I feel like someone is playing a joke on us that our beloved friend is gone. I will cherish all the wonderful times with Laura. God got a beautiful angel on Tuesday. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike and all their family. On angels wings she will fly above us and look out for all. Love Joe, Tasa, Brayden and Aubry Beatty
Stacy Fessenden says
Beautiful cousin, sister, wife, daughter, niece, aunt, granddaughter and friend to soooo many! I already miss her fun, positive, free spirit! All I know is that Heaven is brighter and more fun than ever with Lori in it! I will always smile when I think of her laughter and sense of humor. Love and prayers to Mike, my Uncle Dave, Pam, Tammy and families, and all of her many friends she so loved!!! Until we meet again, sweet angel!
Kristie says
Such a loss of a Beautiful kind soul!! My heart breaks for Mike and all of her loved ones. Gone far too soon!! Sending Prays for comfort and understanding! Rest In Peace Laura you will be missed and remember always by so many!!
Ken And Susan Hammell says
Laura was a great and thoughtful neighbor and friend . She would make Christmas cookies and bring them over every December with Mike and we would have dinner together from time to time.
We will always remember her as a joyful and Very kind woman . We are blessed to have known her.
Dick Schultz says
DAVE, WE ARE SORRY TO HEAR OF LAURA PASSING AWAY. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU AND THE FAMILY ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. YOUR NEIGHBORS DICK AND LORI
Frank Kearney and family, Galway, Ireland says
Mike, Dave, Tammy, Pam and extended Niklas, Barrett and Kearney families. Our heartfelt sympathies to you all on the passing of Laura. Such a sudden passing is a tremendous heartbreak and our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
John and Cherie Dahl says
Laura was a real special friend especially to our daughter April. Our thoughts and prayers 🙏 go out to Mike and the rest of the family 😢
Shirley Chesterfield-Stanton says
I was so sorry to read this.
Love to all of you
Rod Davidson says
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Laura sounds lke a beautiful person, inside and out. I am a friend of Dave’s and only he knows that terrible pain in his heart. God bless you all and know that Laura is in his Presence
A friend,’
Rod Davidson
(Dave and I were friends as kids in the “50’s in Billings
rod davidson says
I am a childhood friend of Grandpa Dave. God Bless you all in your terrible loss. I know that Laura rests in Peace but those who remain behind will join her again with joy in our hearts.
Cristie and Chuck clingan says
I am so sorry to hear this. I loved Laura from a very young age. Always had a smile and such a beautiful women. You will be missed by to many. May you rest now with your mama. Prays to you all
Arlene Flynn says
I was shocked and saddened to hear about Laura’s passing. She had a great personality and contagious smile. The West Mont office will not be the same without her. My sincerest condolences to her family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Shar Stav says
To all of dear Laura’s family,
We met Laura when she came to work for us and we had many years of laughter and hard work. She was an amazing woman and yes her love of animals showed everyday. She was not only an employee but a good friend, and our friendship remains to this day. Her and Kerry are together again causing trouble for heaven! With love , Keith and Shar Stav
Dee Holland says
My beautiful friend, I may never understand why this world took you far too soon. Your eyes, smile, and energy brightened every room your entered. I feel beyond fortunate to count the years I can call you a friend but robbed there were not nearly enough. While I didn’t see you often, the times I did will be treasured forever.
Jo Ann Jones says
I was so saddened to hear about Laura’s passing as I had just met her at Glenn’s birthday party. She had a beautiful soul that resonated with me and I felt she could easily become a good friend. Mike, I am so sorry for your loss. Please know I’m praying for you and your family for these days ahead. Please know you can grieve with hope because this goodbye is not the end.
Carol Duval says
Laura and her sisters Pam and Tammy grew up next door neighbors till their teenage years and we have many fond memories of their childhood days. She will certainly be missed and I know God must have special plans for this beautiful soul. So very sorry for you Mike and David and the Niklas family at this very sad time for all of you. Hold on to those precious memories till we are reunited again.
Julie Fallang ` says
Laura worked with me for many years and was alwasy cheerfull and willing to help. Her beutifull soul left this earth far to soon and will be missed by MANY.
Nan LeFebvre says
My heart goes out to Laura’s family. Although I didn’t really know her, her Mother Colleen was one of my best friends for 30 years. I am so heartbroken for Dave, Pam, Tammy and all of the family. Sending you hugs and prayers.
Nan
Linda L Hoenigsberg says
I did not know Laura, but I wanted you to know that when someone takes the time to write such a beautiful tribute in the obituary column I read it. I want to honor that person and find how “who” they were here on earth. I will keep you in my prayers and know Laura will see you all again. God bless.
Heather Hill says
I was lucky enough to work with Laura for a short time. She was a person who loved animals & was just a good & beautiful person inside & out. I am so sorry for your loss.
Marci & Steve Lynn says
Dear Dave, Mike, Pam, Tammy and families, I cannot express enough my heart felt condolences for the loss of your beautiful daughter, wife & sister. Tears come to my eyes in even writing this. I pray that our Lord would comfort you at this time. We are out of town but will be joining you online as you celebrate this wonderful lady’s life. Marci & Steve Lynn.
Caitlin Willson says
I didn’t know Laura as close as most did, but she was my Mom’s best friend so I was around her for most of my life. I remember being very young and excited to see her because she was my mom’s “cool” friend. I got to know her better when we moved to Montana. When I think about her, I immediately remember her laugh and how she always told it to everyone how it was. I can’t say this about a lot, but Laura was definitely one of the most genuine and kind people I know. I love her and Mike, and I’ll definitely cherish the memories of the time that I was able to spend with her ❤️
Tom and Mary Kearney says
She was a brite light that touched you. The tragedy is heart breaking. To Mike, Dave, Pam, Tammy and families we send our deepest condolences and prayers
Janna Algard Flick says
Hearing this news deeply saddened me for her husband and her family. Even though I have not seen Laura in years, she was one of the nicest and most genuine people I grew up with. Laura and I were in Cheerleading together at CHS and shared many memories growing up. I know she will be missed dearly and as we get together for our 30th HS reunion this summer, we will all miss out on getting to hang out with her again. My thoughts and condolences go out to everyone who was close to her. She will forever live on through your memories.